EDMONTON – The Edmonton Eskimos announced the naming of two key members of the 2013 coaching staff. Veteran CFL coaches Greg Marshall and Doug Sams join the Eskimo organization as defensive coordinator and offensive coordinator respectively.

One of the top defensive strategists in the Canadian game, Marshall returns to the Eskimos where he spent five seasons as a defensive coach from 2000-2004. Marshall, who played 10 seasons as a defensive lineman, has 22 years’ experience as a defensive coach, including 18 in the CFL.

He has led strong defensive units through two division championships, two Grey Cup appearances and the 2003 Eskimo Grey Cup win. “Greg is a veteran coach with a wealth of experience that will enable our young and talented defensive players to continue to grow,” says Coach Reed. See Marshall’s full coaching history.

Sams is entering his 35th season as coach and his 16th as an offensive coach. Last season, he was the quarterbacks coach for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats who led the league in scoring offence.

In 1991, Sams oversaw a then career-high season for legendary quarterback Damon Allen, who was named an Eastern Division All Star for the first time in his career. Sams first stint with the Eskimos was with the 1987 Grey Cup championship team as special teams coordinator and defensive line coach. “Doug has tremendous experience developing young quarterbacks. He is a proven signal caller with vast experience in the CFL and NCAA,” says Coach Reed. See Sams’ full coaching history.

Agree with both comments below. The QB question is big. I wonder if the reed/hervey machine has its eyes on Reilly and/or McPherson? I wonder how Nichols' rehab from the ankle dislocation is going? with a nod to Del Shannon, "I wa wa wa wa wonder..."

January 26, 2013 - 4:03pm

GC Bound

Was it Sams or Cortez that was responsible the offensive stats in Hamilton??
I think 'Cortez'!!!!

January 26, 2013 - 2:51pm

tabbiefanmcb

Yes it was Cortez responsible for the offense last season BUT Sams was a part of the coaching team associated with those stats.

January 27, 2013 - 5:08pm

als rule

2 good hires for the reed/hervey machine!!

January 25, 2013 - 2:52pm

tabbiefanmcb

Both ex-Ticat coaches. Unfortunately the arrival of Austin left Sams without a coaching position on the team. Good luck - Esks probably just improved their offense but will he have a QB to call plays for!!!